For Dawn Harris, the momentum and awareness she feels surrounding matters of race and inequality in the financial services industry is at an all-time high.
Harris — a veteran DEI professional who now serves as director of diversity & inclusion for the CFP Board’s Center for Financial Planning — said that kind of energy has been lacking in the world of wealth management for a long time.
But change is in the air. And if we work together, she believes everyone in the industry may soon be able to enjoy a more welcoming, inclusive environment.
“Everyone is in a different place … but you can feel the energy in the enthusiasm,” Harris told Financial Planning earlier this month. “I think for me, it’s just exciting to have this conversation and have it be elevated.
“It speaks to everyone’s personal commitment to this work that people are continuing to delve into this, ask questions, do research and challenge the profession. So I am humbled to a degree by all of the smart brains that are addressing this issue and excited to be part of this effort.”
Throughout Black History Month, the Financial Planning team has covered efforts by Harris and others committed to change.
Scroll down to see some of this month’s highlights focused on topics we will continue to shine a light on throughout the year in an effort to measure success, point out areas that need improvement and hold decision-makers accountable.
